Music Road Resort Inn

Like its sister hotel, the Music Road Inn is much nicer inside than it appears on the outside; natural wood and decorative wall sconces give the lobby a classic country look. The bright, open space has several cozy sitting areas next to floor-to-ceiling windows, with antique country furnishings that are a pleasant surprise in a mid-level hotel. Thanks to the convention center at the Music Road Hotel, both the Inn and the Hotel host a steady stream of conferences and business travelers, as well as tourists and families who take advantage of the low-key pools.

Located across from the larger Music Road Hotel and its convention center, the Music Road Inn is, similarly, in front of a trolley stop and just off the Parkway, putting all of Pigeon Forge's attractions within easy reach, with or without a car. The Hollywood Wax Museum and numerous bars and restaurants are within walking distance. A gateway town to the Great Smoky Mountains area's scenic mountain views and outdoor activities, Pigeon Forge is home to the famed Dollywood theme park, which is a 15-minute drive from the hotel. The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a 25-minute drive away, through nearby Gatlinburg.

The larger-than-average rooms at the Music Road Inn have carpeted floors and wooden furniture, some of which is made in Tennessee from local cherrywood. A microwave and mini-fridge are tucked into a nook in the entryway, with a coffeemaker in the bathroom, so guests can keep snacks in the room. There's a small sitting area, but no functional work desks. Bathrooms have double vanities with a handy bench underneathand combination shower-tubs, just like at the Music Road Hotel. The small flat-screen TVs are hidden in an armoire. All rooms have private balconies or patios. Compared to those at the Music Road Hotel, the rooms at the Music Road Inn can seem just a tad more tired and dated.

Although not quite the water park the hotel touts, the outdoor pool area does have many features common to a dedicated park -- including a 60-foot water slide, lazy river, and kids' pool with a fountain. The smaller indoor pool and hot tub are open 24-hours. Kids and parents alike appreciate the small arcade room with a pool table. Across the street at the Music Road Hotel, the multi-room convention center and its 14,000 square feet of event space, with event planning and catering staff, is also considered part of the Inn. Like at its larger sibling, breakfast at the Inn is free, including hot options like eggs, bacon, and biscuits and gravy; aside from a seasonal pool snack bar, there's no other on-site dining. There is also a 24-hour fitness center at this location, with updated equipment. Guests can also use any of the Music Road Hotel's amenities across the street -- although, apart from the terrace overlooking the river, the two hotels are nearly identical.